Looking to pursue a Master’s in Finance? France is a fantastic destination for finance students! With its world-class business schools, global financial hubs like Paris, and endless career opportunities, it’s no wonder students from all over the world choose France for their studies.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top masters in finance schools in France, why they’re worth considering, and what you can expect from their programs. Let’s dive in!
Why Study a Master’s in Finance in France?
Here are a few reasons why top masters in finance schools in France is a great choice for a finance degree:
Global Reputation: French business schools are highly ranked and recognized worldwide. Programs like those at HEC Paris and ESSEC regularly top global rankings.
Financial Hub: Paris is one of Europe’s biggest financial centers. Students benefit from being close to major banks, investment firms, and multinational companies.
Job Opportunities: Graduates from French schools often land jobs in top firms like Goldman Sachs, Deloitte, and JP Morgan, not just in France but across Europe and beyond.
Affordable Options: Tuition fees in France are generally more affordable than in the U.S. or U.K. Plus, many schools offer scholarships.
Top Masters in Finance Schools in France
Let’s look at the top masters in finance schools in France and what makes them stand out.
1. HEC Paris
Ranking: #1 in the world (Financial Times 2023)
HEC Paris is the most famous name in finance education globally. Their Master in Finance program is a top pick for students who want to work in investment banking or corporate finance.
Program Features:
Two tracks: Business (for freshers) and Accelerated (for those with experience).
Focus on financial markets, corporate finance, and advanced analytics.
Close ties with firms like McKinsey and Goldman Sachs.
Admissions:
Requires GMAT/GRE scores.
Strong academic background in finance or related fields.
Fees and Duration:
Tuition: €43,200
Program length: 10 months
Career Stats:
99% of graduates get jobs within three months.
Average salary: €73,000
2. ESSEC Business School
Ranking: Top 10 worldwide for Master in Finance
The Master in Finance at ESSEC offers a mix of practical and theoretical learning. It’s a great program for students interested in corporate finance, fintech, or financial markets.
Program Features:
Specializations like Corporate Finance, Financial Markets, and Fintech.
Hands-on experience using Bloomberg terminals and real-world case studies.
Partner companies include PwC, Morgan Stanley, and HSBC.
Admissions:
GMAT, GRE, or TAGE MAGE scores accepted.
Requires a strong academic record.
Fees and Duration:
Tuition: €25,000
Program length: 1 year
Career Stats:
Average salary after graduation: €66,000
3. EDHEC Business School
Ranking: Top 5 in Europe for Finance Programs
EDHEC’s Master in Finance focuses on financial engineering and data analytics, making it a great choice for students interested in these areas.
Program Features:
Strong emphasis on quantitative finance and analytics.
Includes certifications like CFA and Bloomberg.
Students participate in study trips to financial hubs like London or Singapore.
Admissions:
GMAT/GRE required.
Preference for students with strong math and analytical skills.
Fees and Duration:
Tuition: €24,900
Program length: 18 months
Career Stats:
Average salary: €65,000
4. ESCP Business School
Ranking: Among the top 10 globally for Finance
If you want an international experience, ESCP is a great option. It has campuses in Paris, London, and Berlin, giving students the chance to study in multiple cities.
Program Features:
Covers topics like Mergers & Acquisitions, Risk Management, and Corporate Finance.
Internships and career opportunities in major European cities.
Strong alumni network in finance and consulting.
Admissions:
GMAT/GRE or CAT scores accepted.
Requires a strong academic and professional profile.
Fees and Duration:
Tuition: €26,000
Program length: 1 year
Career Stats:
Average salary after graduation: €63,000
5. Grenoble Ecole de Management (GEM)
Ranking: Recognized for its focus on quantitative finance
Grenoble’s program is perfect for students who want to specialize in risk management, portfolio management, or financial analysis.
Program Features:
Focuses on quantitative finance and fintech.
CFA-affiliated curriculum to prepare students for CFA exams.
Opportunities to compete in international finance competitions.
Admissions:
GMAT/GRE required.
Strong background in finance or related fields preferred.
Fees and Duration:
Tuition: €21,450
Program length: 2 years
Career Stats:
Average starting salary: €60,000
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Many of these top masters in finance schools in France offer scholarships for international students. Here are some examples:
HEC Foundation Excellence Scholarships: Covers up to 50% of tuition fees.
ESSEC Academic Excellence Scholarship: Reduces tuition by 10-40%.
EDHEC Global Talent Scholarship: Awards up to €5,000.
Applying early and submitting a strong application can improve your chances of receiving financial aid.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates from these top masters in finance schools in France often secure top roles in fields like:
Investment Banking: Working at firms like Goldman Sachs and Barclays.
Corporate Finance: Joining companies like Deloitte and KPMG.
Asset Management: With firms like BlackRock and Vanguard.
Fintech: At companies like Stripe or Revolut.
Most schools report over 90% job placement rates within three months of graduation.
Conclusion
Choosing the right school for your Master’s in Finance can open the door to incredible career opportunities. The top masters in finance schools in France—like HEC Paris, ESSEC, and EDHEC—are excellent options for anyone looking to enter the finance industry.
Consider your career goals, budget, and preferred learning style when picking a program. With the right school and hard work, you’ll be ready to succeed in the competitive world of finance.
